KALAMAZOO, MI -- Don't be surprised to hear plenty of engines roaring in the streets of Kalamazoo this weekend.

The fourth annual Michigan State Harley-Davidson Owners Group (H.O.G.) Rally will roll into Kalamazoo Thursday for a three-day event that is expected to draw about 1,000 members to the streets of Kalamazoo.

"Most people attend the Michigan H.O.G. Rally for the camaraderie, to ride and have a good time with other H.O.G. enthusiasts," said coordinator Scott Rhuland in a press release.

The Kalamazoo Expo Center is the host location for the event, which kicks off noon Thursday and ends Saturday.

David Rachowicz, Kalamazoo County Parks and Expo Center director, said the event will have a "substantial impact on the local economy."

According to the National Harley Owners Group, the rally could pump more than $500,000 into the local economy, based on its estimate of visitors' spending.

A welcome party for the riders will take place 8 p.m. Thursday at the Wild Bull Saloon and Steak Pit. The Parade of Flags, featuring 350 bikes carrying their chapter's flags, will happen in downtown Kalamazoo Saturday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

H.O.G. is a national group with about 25,000 members in Michigan and more than 900,000 members worldwide.